VMware Offers Virtualization Software for Windows-Based Intel Servers

VMware, Inc., Monday announced the availability of a Windows version of VMware GSX Server, the first virtualization software product to enable businesses to partition Windows-based servers into multiple secure virtual servers.

VMware, which specializes in developing virtualization software for Intel computers, designed the product to meet the growing demand for server consolidation in the Windows market.

VMware, Inc., Monday announced the availability of a Windows version of VMware GSX Server, the first virtualization software product to enable businesses to partition Windows-based servers into multiple secure virtual servers.

VMware's built-in virtualization layer turns an enterprise's physical computers into a pool of logical computing resources. The grouping can then be dynamically allocated to any operating system or application at whatever layer of granularity is desired.

Using patent-pending technology, VMware products "virtualize" Intel machines to provide them with such capabilities as server consolidation, capacity planning, and rapid provisioning, at a reduced cost and with less complexity.

"Businesses around the globe are telling us that they need to consolidate their servers," said Diane Greene, co-founder, president and CEO of VMware. "Most servers are being used at only 10 percent to 35 percent capacity. VMware server products enable businesses to do more with less, while gaining unprecedented levels of flexibility and control."

VMware GSX Server was initially released in a Linux-only version in January. That version enables enterprises to run multiple operating environments on a single Linux-based machine. Similarly, with the Windows version of VMware GSX Server, enterprises can run multiple operating environments and their respective applications on a single physical server with a Windows NT or Windows 2000 host.

"Virtual machines have long ranked among the most powerful tools available on mainframes, where they have been invaluable for managing multiple dominant workloads on a single machine," said Tony Iams, vice president of Systems Software Research at D.H. Brown Associates.

"The availability of VMware GSX Server significantly increases the options available to IT managers who want to use industry-standard hardware for applications that require similar workload management capabilities, such as server consolidation or high-end service provider environments," Iams added.

More than 2,500 customers have requested evaluation copies of VMware GSX Server since a beta version of the product became available June 4. Enterprises already on board include Lotus Development Corp., First Consulting Group, and the Florida Department of Transportation.

The Windows version of VMware GSX Server is priced at $2,499 and is available immediately from VMware's online store. A 30-day evaluation copy is also available for download.